Lauren
Director of College Advising

EDUCATION
Columbia University, Master of Social Work
Smith College, BA in Psychology with a minor in English

ADMISSIONS EXPERIENCE
Williams College, Assistant Director of Admissions

Originally from the Bay Area in California, Lauren went east for college, completing her undergraduate degree at Smith College with a major in psychology and a minor in English. Her early professional career exposed her to the world of community mental health, leading Lauren to return to school and earn her Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University. 

Upon completing her graduate degree, Lauren worked in the mental health arena for many years, gaining experience in a range of clinical settings but focusing primarily on children, adolescents, and families. After approximately ten years of clinical work, Lauren took an opportunity to work closely with students at Central European University as the Director of Student Services while living in Prague, Czech Republic. There she discovered her true professional love – guiding and supporting students through times of educational (and emotional!) growth and transition. 

Lauren later returned to the US and served as Assistant Director of Admissions at Williams College for a number of years, working with domestic and international applicants. About 15 years ago, she moved to the DC metro area to become the Director of College Counseling at an elite private high school before transitioning on to work with numerous national college consulting companies.

Over the last twenty years, Lauren has helped thousands of students and families navigate the college admissions process. She understands the complexity of the landscape, and appreciates that the journey can be equal parts exciting and stressful. Lauren truly believes in each student’s potential to thrive where they land, and strives to offer thoughtful, highly personalized, and honest guidance with integrity and warmth. 

When she’s not working, Lauren is likely to be reading – there’s always a huge stack of library books in her house – or exploring the Washington, DC metro area. Lauren loves spending time with friends, enjoying good food and great wine, and is infinitely grateful that all of her travels have allowed her to make, and keep, friendships across the globe. If she’s not doing any of the above, Lauren is likely to be tending to her very bossy rescue cat (who clearly thinks he’s a dog), or baking.

Pre-Test Pump Up Song “Not Afraid” by Eminem

Favorite Nerd Willow from Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Dog Breed Alter Ego Pretty much any middle aged rescue mutt. But more to the point – a Golden Retriever.

Offerings

College Prep

College Advising